Chrysler to build minivans in China

Fuzhou, China – The Chrysler Group yesterday announced its intention to license South East Motors Inc. to manufacture its minivan for the Chinese market, in the southeastern Chinese city of Fuzhou.

Two weeks after starting his new role as President and CEO of the Chrysler Group, Tom LaSorda visited China to review the company’s plans. South East Motors Inc. is a joint venture between Fujian Motor Industry Group and China Motor Corporation; DaimlerChrysler has also established a separate joint venture with the companies, called DaimlerChrysler Vans (China) Ltd., to produce the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Viano multi-purpose vehicles at another new facility, also in Fuzhou. The minivan will be built in an existing South Motors facility; production is expected to start by the end of 2006.